Increase of Structure Fire Incidents in Kalamazoo

Date: 8/28/2024

Address: 150 E. Crosstown Pkwy., Suite A, Kalamazoo, MI 49001

Contact: KDPS Fire Marshal’s Office | (269) 337-8260

Kalamazoo, MI:

The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) is closely monitoring a recent increase in fire incidents across the city, including two structure fires that occurred earlier today. In the early hours of this morning, officers were alerted to fires at vacant homes on Humphrey Street and Sherwood Avenue. Thanks to the prompt action of our teams, both fires were brought under control with no injuries reported. KDPS is actively investigating these and other recent incidents to determine if there are any connections, and we remain committed to keeping the community informed as we gather more information.

“We want the public to know that our investigation is thorough and ongoing," stated Fire Marshal Scott Brooks. "Our primary focus is on ensuring the safety of our residents and preventing any further incidents. We are grateful that no one has been harmed, and we are leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to find those responsible."

The department has also partnered with Silent Observer to offer a reward of up to $1,000 for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the individual or individuals responsible for these fires. Information can be provided anonymously through the Kalamazoo Silent Observer tip line at (269) 343-2100, the “P3Tips” app, or online at www.KalamazooSilentObserver.com.

Lastly, we are asking residents in and around the areas of these recent fires, dating back to June, to review any camera footage they may have for suspicious activity. Any information, no matter how small it may seem, could be crucial in helping us solve these cases.

OUR MISSION

Silent Observer encourages members of the community to assist local law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime by overcoming the two key elements that inhibit community involvement: fear and lack of interest.

Silent Observer provides a telephone hotline and web tip page  to encourage citizens in the community to volunteer vital information helpful to law enforcement agencies in their crime-fighting efforts.   In addition, tips can be submitted through the free app "P3Tips." 

Callers can remain anonymous and are eligible to receive a cash reward if the information given leads to an arrest and conviction, or grand jury indictment, of a felony offender.

Silent Observer relies on volunteer Directors and tax deductible contributions from the public in order to operate the administration of the program.